Never Letting Go

Title: Never Letting Go
Photographed by: Milli Stephania

Newlyweds, The Burgos, sneak off to soak in all their joy during their wedding reception

Family: Maldonado Christmas

Christmas isn’t a season.It’s a feeling

It’s that wonderful time of the year again. And after the year that we have had, We need all the positivity and enlightening spirit we can get.

This year has made you realize the things that truly matter. It’s not fancy clothes, going out and spending money at the clubs, it’s pending time with love ones and not taking them or their time for granted.

We never really know when it’s going to be the last time we see that favorite cousin, that uncle that always makes you laugh, or your grandmother who spends all her days in the kitchen making your favorite meals.

No matter the age, I’ll always be daddy’s little princess.

Family feeds your soul, they are always there to bluntly tell you the truth even if you don’t wanna hear it, and always be the ones to have your back in public, and then yell at you about in private.

It’s all love.

This session was so heartwarming for me to do, I’ve known my neighbors for almost 20 years, (Damn I’m getting old) And I’ve never seen My neighbor Liz, once show off any family photos.

Which is why this year I told her that nothing would make me happier than gifting her a family session with her family. Her daughter who’s away at college, her teenage son who is almost about to finish high school and her loving husband of many many moons.

They’ve been through so much this year, and if I could bring a little joy into their lives I was going to do that.

As soon as I told her the news she got so excited, and straightaway knew that she wanted everybody in pajamas, at home, all cozied up together. It was perfect.

It was great to see everybody laughing, and enjoying themselves at the session. John and Liz even showed me their last portrait session taken 17 years ago, when the kids were so tiny. It was taken at Sears and it was hung up on the living room wall and you can instantly see the style of the 90’s.

I laughed and joked that it was about damn time!

They both mentioned they couldn’t wait to get their new ones printed and framed to show off to anyone that walks in through the doors.

Once I delivered the gallery, I received messages of praises. This is one of the best feelings that comes with job, making those memories tangible.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday and cherish the ones you have next to you.

Family: Dear Santa…

Feliz Noche Buena! It’s here guys we officially made it, it’s the holidays! It hasn’t been the easiest year, but it’s time to celebrate, we definitely deserve it.

I have about 3 to 4 years working with Darlene from Suitheelscurves , my favorite blogger. She focuses on everything from lifestyle, family and plus size fashion. She’s so freaking sweet and every time we work together, it’s always fun!

Since we like to work together in batches, let me explain, we take one day, with a whole bunch of outfits, and create content in bulk. So to me I didn’t think it was out of the ordinary to show up and go in one a few concepts today.

Little did I know that’s Arlene, had a pretty nice surprise up her sleeve, or should I say in her belly!

Creating these announcement images for Darlene was such a blessing, I definitely jumped up and down and gave her a huge hug! Now Michaela is going to be a big sister and her excitement is nothing short of enthusiastic.

Dear Santa, this year, a family of 3 will become a family of 4!

Daddy + Me: Moises + Hunter

I’ve been itching to photograph a Daddy + Me session. As much as I adore documenting mother’s I’ve been wanting an intimate session that captures the love of fatherhood. So when I was blessed with the opportunity to photograph Mo and his son, Hunter, there was no way I was saying no.

Our day started with some brisk air, which I was worried was going to be a little bit too cold for Hunter. We decided to shoot full force right under the sun to keep warm, which ended up making things perfect, while I promoted Dad and little man to run around and play.

Once Hunter started skipping, chasing daddy and playing tag, his shyness quickly faded.

One of my favorite prompts for toddlers,
“Show me your muscles!”

What a great mini session with father and son. As always, I’m honored to be that fly on the wall with my camera. You don’t always need a special occasion to hire a photographer, it’s those little movements that matter the most.

If you’d like to reach out to me and have your loved ones photographed you can do so by clicking the button below.

Speak to you soon!

Photo Journal: Prosper And Be In Good Health

“New beginnings” doesn’t always mean starting over. Sometimes it means looking at what you already have and tackling it from a different perspective. Being grateful for how it exists, and rediscovering how it can be better.
One of my biggest goals this year is to learn how to –self care– I want to be able to have a healthy body, mind and soul. I don’t want things, people or situations to dictate my responses or actions. I am in control of me. And you are in control of you.
All of our goals no matter how different, tend to fall into a similar category, being a better version of yourself.
I hope you all prosper and become better versions of yourselves in 2019, 20, 21 or no matter how long that journey may take you. .

Take longer baths, listen to that music a little louder, drink more water, dance in the rain, say more “thank you’s” and less “sorries”, hug people more, be kind, eat better, call your mom more, make better decisions and most definitely surround yourself with people who make you feel good.

Family: Fractured & Hungry

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A couple of weeks ago now, my brother was hit by car. By the grace of God, he’s with us alive and well, just limping a little bit. Since he’s been on bed rest for a little while, and probably bored out of his mind–One of his close friends, Alex wanted to throw him a little barbecue to get him out of the house… even if it may it be only a few feet away.
It was a nice night, and such a nice gesture. I woke up early to  clean the back yard a bit, and a few moments later, Alex and I were in Costco stocking up on supplies (and yes I made him push me in the cart all over the store)
Here’s to happy healing, and being grateful for blessings,

Tribeca Film Festival: Mary Poppins & Musical Stylings of Cristina Gatti

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I was sooooooo cold. I can’t even exaggerate my shivering. I wore some cute little ballet flats, and ended up suffering.  I met up with David and friends, and Rosa ended up being my cuddle buddy, especially since she brought  a quilt big enough for 2.

After the movie, we headed to a nice little spot that looked straight from the 30’s. Cristina Gatti, one of David’s  friends was performing post modern juke box style. She reminds me of Amy Winehouse  with her raspy voice and I couldn’t love it anymore! Check out the pics and vids from this night. I also included one of her other videos of her singing Beyonce’s Drunk in Love, which I personally think is waaay better. Check it out.

Later guys.

♥, M2 3 4 5

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7 9IMG_4705Ps. Check out the video David video-graphed: